If you've been going back and forth between a Cavapoo and a Maltipoo, you're not alone. It's one of the most common questions we get here at Weaver Family Farms. Both breeds are small, low-shedding, affectionate, and absolutely adorable — so what's actually the difference? And more importantly, which one is the right fit for your family?
I'm Daxon Weaver, and we raise both Cavapoos and Maltipoos here on our small, state-licensed family farm in Missouri. I've watched both breeds grow up, go to their forever homes, and thrive with all kinds of families. So let me give you the honest, real-world comparison — no fluff, no sales pitch.
The Quick Answer
If you want a slightly bigger, more outgoing, energetic companion that loves everyone, go Cavapoo. If you want a smaller, gentler, ultra-cuddly lap dog that's perfectly happy in a smaller space — go Maltipoo. But let's break that down properly, because the details really do matter.
Where They Come From
Cavapoo: A cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle. The Cavalier brings warmth, gentleness, and a love of people. The Poodle brings intelligence, trainability, and a low-shedding coat. Together, you get one of the most well-rounded family dogs out there.
Maltipoo: A cross between a Maltese and a Poodle. The Maltese brings a sweet, devoted, gentle personality. The Poodle again brings the smarts and the low-shedding coat. The result is a smaller, softer, deeply affectionate companion dog.
Both breeds inherit the Poodle's low-shedding qualities — a big reason why both are so popular with allergy-sensitive families. You can read more in our article on whether Cavapoos are hypoallergenic.
Size Comparison
Cavapoo: Our Cavapoos typically weigh between 14 and 20 pounds full grown — sturdy enough to handle a little roughhousing with kids, but still compact enough for apartment living.
Maltipoo: Our Maltipoos typically weigh between 10 and 16 pounds full grown — true lap dogs. If you want something you can easily carry that takes up minimal space, the Maltipoo wins here.
Temperament — The Real Differences
Cavapoo Personality
Cavapoos are social butterflies. They love everyone — your family, your friends, strangers at the park, other dogs. The Cavalier in them gives them a naturally open, warm personality that makes them incredibly easy to be around. They're playful and energetic but not hyper. They love a good walk, a play session, and then curling up with you on the couch. They're also very emotionally intuitive — they seem to know when you need a cuddle.
Maltipoo Personality
Maltipoos are devoted. They pick their person (or family) and they are ALL in. They're a little more sensitive than Cavapoos — they feel things deeply and bond very tightly with their owners. They're gentle, sweet, and calm by nature. If you want a dog that is completely focused on you, a Maltipoo delivers that in spades.
Which Is Better With Kids?
Cavapoos tend to handle the energy of young children a little better. They're slightly sturdier and more naturally playful. We've seen our Cavapoo puppies go to homes with toddlers and they do beautifully.
Maltipoos are wonderful with kids too, but because they're smaller and more sensitive, they do better with children who are a little older and know how to be gentle.
If you have very young kids (under 5), we'd lean toward the Cavapoo. School-age and older? Either breed is a great choice.
Energy Level & Exercise Needs
Cavapoo: Moderate energy. A 20–30 minute walk plus some indoor play is usually plenty. Happy to go on adventures but doesn't require intense exercise.
Maltipoo: Lower to moderate energy. A daily walk and some indoor play is all they really need — one of the best breeds for apartment living or a more relaxed lifestyle.
Grooming — What to Expect
Cavapoo coat: Wavy to curly. Needs brushing several times a week and professional grooming every couple of months.
Maltipoo coat: Also wavy to curly, often a bit softer. Needs daily brushing to prevent matting and professional grooming every couple of months.
For warm weather care tips for both breeds, check out our guide on 6 Essential Sun Protection Tips for Your Cavapoo and Maltipoo.
Cavapoo vs Maltipoo — Side by Side
| Feature | Cavapoo | Maltipoo |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 14–20 lbs | 10–16 lbs |
| Energy Level | Moderate | Low–Moderate |
| Best With Kids | All ages | School-age & up |
| Personality | Outgoing, social | Devoted, gentle |
| Apartment Friendly | Yes | Yes (ideal) |
| Shedding | Very low | Very low |
| Grooming Needs | Regular | Regular (daily brush) |
| Good for First-Time Owners | Yes | Yes |
Also Worth Considering — Our Other Breeds
Still on the fence? We also raise Cockapoo puppies — a Cocker Spaniel and Poodle mix that's another fantastic low-shedding family dog.
And if you love the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel side of the Cavapoo, check out our purebred Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies — one of the most gentle, loving breeds in existence.
So Which One Should You Choose?
Choose a Cavapoo if: you have young kids, want a more outgoing social dog, have an active lifestyle, or want a slightly bigger small dog.
Choose a Maltipoo if: you want the ultimate lap dog, live in an apartment, have a quieter lifestyle, or want the smallest possible size.
Honestly? You can't go wrong with either one. The best thing you can do is reach out to us and talk it through — we know both breeds inside and out and we're happy to help you figure out which one is the right fit for your family.
See Our Available Puppies
- Cavapoo Puppies For Sale
- Maltipoo Puppies For Sale
- Cockapoo Puppies For Sale
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Puppies For Sale
Get on our Puppy Waiting List to reserve your spot, or contact us with any questions. We'd love to help you find the perfect puppy.
